After their universe-altering battle against Thanos, the Avengers are no longer the team they once were. Some members made the ultimate sacrifice, others chose a different path, and a new generation is rising to take their place. With the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) expanding, fans are eager to know what’s next for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.
The battle against Thanos cost Tony Stark his life, but his legacy lives on. His sacrifice ensured the survival of half the universe, making him a legend. His daughter, Morgan Stark, could one day carry on his work, while protégés like Peter Parker and Riri Williams (Ironheart) are stepping into the spotlight. Stark’s influence can still be felt in the advanced technology used by heroes across the MCU.
Natasha Romanoff also gave her life to secure the Soul Stone, leaving a void that her sister, Yelena Belova, has partially filled. Introduced in Black Widow, Yelena has already played a role in Hawkeye and is set to return in Thunderbolts. While she may never replace Natasha, she carries her sister’s fighting spirit and deadly skills into the future.
Steve Rogers chose to pass on the shield rather than return to the battlefield. By traveling back in time to live a life with Peggy Carter, he closed his chapter as Captain America. He later entrusted the shield to Sam Wilson, who officially took up the mantle in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
Sam’s journey as the new Captain America is just beginning, and Captain America: Brave New World will showcase his first major test as a leader. Unlike Steve, Sam doesn’t have super-soldier serum-enhanced abilities, but his unwavering dedication to justice makes him a worthy successor.
Once a central figure in the Avengers, Thor has taken a different route. After leaving New Asgard in Thor: Love and Thunder, he now travels the cosmos with his newly adopted daughter, Love. His days as an Avenger seem to be behind him, but that doesn’t mean he won’t return when the universe needs him.
With Hercules introduced in a post-credit scene, Thor’s next adventure could involve facing the Olympian god. Whether he reunites with Earth’s heroes or continues his cosmic journey remains to be seen.
Clint Barton has attempted to retire multiple times, but his past always seems to pull him back. After training Kate Bishop in Hawkeye, he has seemingly passed the torch. Kate’s enthusiasm and skill make her a promising new hero, and she could play a key role in forming the Young Avengers.
While Clint may not be in the spotlight anymore, his experience remains valuable. Whether he stays retired or returns in a mentorship role, his influence on the next generation is undeniable.
Bruce Banner has undergone major transformations, both physically and emotionally. He has mastered Smart Hulk form, balancing his intelligence with his strength. However, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law introduced a major twist—he now has a son, Skaar.
This revelation hints at a potential World War Hulk storyline, which could bring the Hulk back into the action in a big way. Whether he remains a scientist in the background or takes on a leadership role, Banner’s story is far from over.
Doctor Strange played a crucial role in Endgame, and his story has only become more complex. After tampering with the multiverse in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, he is now dealing with its dangerous consequences. His next moves will likely shape the fate of the MCU’s cosmic and magical .
Meanwhile, Spider-Man finds himself in an unexpected position. After the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Peter Parker is now completely alone. With no one remembering his identity, he’s essentially starting over. While he may no longer be an Avenger in the traditional sense, his journey is far from over, and future team-ups are inevitable.
The original team may no longer be intact, but that doesn’t mean the Avengers are gone. New heroes like Shang-Chi, Ms. Marvel, and the Eternals are stepping up. The Young Avengers, a team hinted at in multiple recent projects, could bring fresh faces into the spotlight.
With Kang the Conqueror emerging as the next major threat, it’s only a matter of time before a new team assembles to defend the world. Whether it’s a mix of veterans and rookies or an entirely fresh lineup, the legacy of the Avengers will continue.
The Avengers as we knew them may be gone, but their impact will never fade. The MCU is in a transition phase, shifting from the Infinity Saga to new challenges and threats. As the multiverse expands and new heroes rise, one thing is certain—the world will always need its protectors.
